District of ColumbiaB26-0321Council Period 26 (2025-2026)HouseWALLET

DC Water Disconnection and Billing Clarification Emergency Amendment Act of 2025

Sponsored By: Charles Allen (Democratic)

Became Law

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.

Higher DC Water late fees and shutoffs

DC Water adds up to a 10% late fee if a bill is unpaid more than 30 days. After 60 days, it adds a 1% monthly penalty that compounds. DC Water can shut off service 30 days after the bill date until you pay. A new owner or tenant can still face shutoff for old unpaid charges. Restoring water without permission is illegal and carries a fine of the greater of 20% of the delinquent bill or $100.

More notice before DC Water shutoffs

DC Water must post a notice at least 30 working days before stopping service. Notices should be in English, Spanish, or another language used at the property and, where possible, posted at each unit. The notice is made with the Office of the Tenant Advocate and must show the amount owed and days past due. The law turns some optional notice steps into required ones. Notices must also mention receivership as a possible outcome.

DC Water must provide language access

DC Water is now covered by the District’s Language Access Act. The agency must offer bills, notices, and customer help in other languages where needed. This improves access for residents who speak little English.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Charles Allen
Democratic • House

Cosponsors

There are no cosponsors for this bill.

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 12 • No: 0

House vote • 7/14/2025

Final Reading